Ben Franklin and the magic squares
by Murphy, Frank, Frank Murphy, Richard Walz
Random House 2001
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- curiosity
- problem-solving
- invention
- mathematics
- persistence
- creativity
- history
About this book
This early reader introduces kids to Benjamin Franklin through his fascination with math puzzles called magic squares. Simple text and lively illustrations show how Franklin’s curiosity and creativity led him to tinker, test, and solve problems. Young readers learn a bit of history while enjoying a fun math idea they can try themselves. Great for kids who like puzzles, inventors, and true stories from the past.
Setting: colonial Philadelphia, 1700s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ben Franklin and the magic squares right for my child?
Yes — Ben Franklin and the magic squares is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.4, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include curiosity, problem-solving, invention.
How long does it take to read Ben Franklin and the magic squares?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Ben Franklin and the magic squares takes around 6m to finish. The book has 840 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Ben Franklin and the magic squares have an AR quiz?
Yes — Ben Franklin and the magic squares has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Ben Franklin and the magic squares?
Ben Franklin and the magic squares has an AR reading level of 3.4, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.